Gerald DeSpain

Gerald DeSpain, 76 of Branson.

Services for Gerald DeSpain, 76 of Branson, will be Saturday, July 23, 2022 at 10:00 AM in Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home and Crematory, Branson with burial following in Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery, Branson with military honors. Visitation will be Friday evening, July 22, in the funeral home from 7:00 – 8:00 PM. In Gerald’s memory, flowers or donations of the donor’s choice are accepted.

Gerald Kenneth DeSpain was born on December 7, 1945 in Ottawa, Illinois. He was the beloved son of Kenneth Thomas DeSpain and Laura Gertrude (Skaggs) DeSpain. Gerald graduated from Ottawa High School. He attended Greer Technical Institute in Illinois where he earned his welding certification. He worked as a welder for more than 45 years. Gerald is a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the United States Army from 1966 to 1969. He was awarded five military medals including the Bronze Service Star.

Gerald married Diana Foster on March 23, 1968 in Ottawa. They lived a life full of faith, love and raising their children, Kimberley and Brian. Gerald, Diana and family moved from Illinois to Florida where Gerald earned his Associates Degree in Religious Education from Faith Baptist Seminary in Milton, FL. Gerald and Diana moved to Republic, MO from Florida and the last six years they have resided in Branson. Gerald enjoyed camping and walking his dog “Gracie” in his neighborhood. He was also a member of Treasure Lake Resort and loved the time and friendships he had there.

Gerald entered into rest on July 17, 2022 at his home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth & Gertie; his daughter Kimberley DeSpain and his sister Pam Learned.

Gerald is survived by his wife, Diana DeSpain of Branson; son Brian DeSpain of Branson; sisters, Renee Johnson & her husband Ted of Ottawa, IL and Luanna Ruggerio of Ottawa, along with his four cherished grandchildren.